Log structure

ABSTRACT

The present invention discloses a log cabin structure using logs with multi-beveled interlocking notches located at the end of each log. The interlocking notches serve to form a tight locking connection at the cornering of the structure where the logs overlap one another. The interlocking notches are composed substantially of heartwood, which serves to reduce settlement and maintain a tight connection over time. The measurements for the interlocking notches are a function of the dimensions of the logs used. The log cabin structure may further employ anti-settling blocks which are disposed between the logs of the structure. In the preferred embodiment, the anti-settling blocks are positioned in aligned recesses which are present in the logs that compose the structure. Accordingly, the presence of the interlocking-notch cornering system and the anti-settling blocks combine to minimize the negative effects of settling on the structure while providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional application of U.S. application Ser.No. 11/088,924 and further claims priority from U.S. Provisional App.No. 60/555,973.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It is not known when the first log building structure was constructed,but many examples show that they have been around for several centuries.Traditionally, log homes are constructed by laying the logs horizontallyon top of each other to form walls. The logs are then notched tointerlock with the logs in the perpendicular walls to provide cornerswith substantial stability and strength.

Today the log home industry is categorized into two types ofconstruction: manufactured or handcrafted. Log handcrafters use handtools and handheld power tools to shape each individual log to mate withthe logs they contact. Most handcrafted logs still retain each log'snatural taper and shape on the visible portions of the log which isusually left round. These logs generally use some variation of what isknown as a saddle notch. This is where a half round keyway is carvedinto the bottom of the log to tightly fit over the top of theperpendicular logs that it rests on at each corner, or intersection, ofthe building. The problem with handcrafted log homes is settling due tothe natural shrinkage of logs and the high costs of the labor intensiveprocess to build these log homes.

Manufacturers use power saws and planers to shape the interchangeablelogs into uniform shape and size. Much of the time a large portion ofthe outer sapwood is removed, leaving a high proportion of theheartwood. Since heartwood is denser, having a lower percentage ofwater, there is a lower amount of shrinkage than with the sapwood of atree. The problem with manufactured log homes is that many peoplebelieve that they lack the natural charm and character of theirhandcrafted counter parts.

This invention provides a way to have a look very similar to handcraftedlog homes but at a more economical price with less shrinkage of thewalls.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This multi-beveled interlocking corner notch can be used with eitherhand peeled, naturally tapered logs or logs that have beenmachine-profiled. The notch uses a center block that is centeredbasically on the long axis of the log. The height of this center blockis mathematically determined based on the overall height of the largeand small ends of the log. This enables the notch to be used with almostany sized log or piece of timber. The notch consists of twelve toeighteen flat surfaces, depending on the width of the top and bottomsurfaces running the length of the log.

Having the center block composed mainly of heartwood will result in atype of notch that will have much less shrinkage than handcrafted logsthat use saddle notches that remove sections of the lower heartwood andretain all the upper sapwood. Since shrinkage in the corner sections ofthis invention has been greatly reduced, measures are also made to keepthe rest of the wall from shrinking at a faster rate than the corners.This is accomplished by boring holes through the sapwood to solidheartwood around the points where the thru-bolts penetrate the logs, andthen filling the holes with wooden blocks made out of similar heartwood.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional view of a typical corner section using theinvention with naturally tapering logs.

FIG. 2 is an exploded front elevation view of a typical structure.

FIG. 3 is the side view of the log and a view of the same log dividedinto four parts for detailed views.

FIG. 3A is a side view of the notch on the large end of the log.

FIG. 3AA is the sectional view of the notch on the large end of the log.

FIG. 3AB is the top view of the notch on the large end of the log.

FIG. 3AC is the bottom view of the notch on the large end of the log.

FIG. 3B is a side view of the notch on the small end of the log.

FIG. 3BA is a sectional view of the notch on the small end of the log.

FIG. 3BB is the top view of the notch on the small end of the log.

FIG. 3BC is the bottom view of the notch on the small end of the log.

FIG. 3C is a side view of a typical anti-settling thru-bolt with fillerblock.

FIG. 3CA is the sectional view of the anti-settling thru-bolt and fillerblock.

FIG. 3D is the side view of a typical anti settling thru-bolt and blocksystem with an attachment beam for an interior partition.

FIG. 3DA is the sectional view of the anti-settling thru-bolt and blockwith an attached beam for an interior partition.

FIG. 4 is the side view of the half log sectioned off of a full log anda second view of the same half log divided into four parts for detailedviews.

FIG. 4A is the side view of the notch on the large end of the half log.

FIG. 4AA is a sectional view of the notch on the large end of the halflog.

FIG. 4B is the side view of the notch on the small end of the half log.

FIG. 4BA is the sectional view of the notch on the small end of the halflog.

FIG. 5 is the mathematical formula to determine distance SH.

FIG. 6 is the mathematical formula to determine distance LH.

FIG. 7 is the mathematical formula to determine distance F.

FIG. 8 is the mathematical formula to determine distance SM.

FIG. 9 is the mathematical formula to determine distance LG.

FIG. 10 is the mathematical formula to determine distance BH.

FIG. 11 is the mathematical formula to determine distance SH.

FIG. 12 is the mathematical formula to determine distance LH.

FIG. 13 is the mathematical formula to determine distance SW.

FIG. 14 is the mathematical formula to determine distance LW.

FIG. 15 is the mathematical formula to determine distance PLW.

FIG. 16 is the mathematical formula to determine distance PSW.

FIG. 17 is the mathematical formula to determine distance LX.

FIG. 18 is the mathematical formula to determine distance SX.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

This invention provides a novel interlocking corner notch andanti-settling blocks that can be used in the construction of logbuildings.

The following example uses logs that retain their natural taper androunded sides with top and bottom surfaces that have been milled flatfor added stability of each log.

Because these logs use flat top and bottom surfaces, each notch containseighteen flat surfaces, opposed to the eight flat surfaces that would beused with logs that are completely rounded. The ten additional surfacesjust become the points of contact for the remaining eight surfaces.

Once assembled, the logs in a wall built with this style of notchclosely resemble handcrafted logs that use saddle notches, as seen inFIG. 1.

The logs used in this invention consist of a log 100 that uses a notchon each end, with the top half of the notch on the large end of the logand the bottom half of the notch on the small end of the log milled tomate with the large end of other logs 100. Likewise, the bottom half ofthe notch on the large end, and the top half of the notch on the smallend, mate with the other small ends of logs 100, as shown in FIG. 3.

As seen in FIG. 4, the half log 101 is simply a log 100 dissected on aplane that runs through the vertical meeting points of the upper andlower halves of the notches on both end of the log with everything abovethis plane being half log 101.

FIG. 2 is a partially-exploded side elevation view of a typical logcabin. First, a foundation of choice is constructed in advance withthreaded rods 52 attached or imbedded as desired or as may be requiredby local codes or the building's architect. Half logs 101 are thenplaced over threaded rods 52 on two parallel wall positions with thelarge ends of the half logs on opposing corners. On the two wallpositions perpendicular to the first half logs, spacer blocks 42 areplaced over threaded rods 52 and placed directly on the foundationsills. A log 100 is then placed over threaded rods 52 on eachperpendicular wall position with the logs 100 being in position upsidedown from the position shown in FIG. 3, and the large ends of log 100being placed directly on top of the large ends of logs 101. In thesepositions, the large half of the notches on the large end of logs 100mate with the matching large half of half log 101, and the small endsalso mate together. Washers 46 and retaining nuts 45 are then placed oneach threaded rod 52 and snugly tightened to hold the logs in this firstcourse securely in place.

The next course of logs is started by placing spacer blocks 42 onto eachthreaded rod 52 with the spacer blocks resting in their appropriaterecessed holes on the top of the logs on the course below. Logs 100 arethen placed onto the threaded rods 52, on the two parallel first walls,in the upright position with the large ends of these logs resting on thesmall end of the logs, on the same wall, directly below. Logs 100 arethen placed, in the upside down position, over the threaded rods 52 onthe two perpendicular walls with the large ends of the logs resting onthe small ends of the logs directly below on the same wall. Washer 46and retaining nut 45 are then placed on each threaded rod 52 andtightened.

This process is repeated as many times as necessary until the desiredheight is attained and the roof can then be assembled and openings fordoors and windows cut out of the wall.

It will be noted that while the use of threaded rods is generally themost satisfactory means of anchoring the logs to a base and maintainingthe position of the logs in the log structure, other means may be usedas well. For instance, a log structure may not use the rods but ratheruse a high-grade adhesive in order hold the logs together and in place.

The dimensions of the logs 100 are determined by a series ofmathematical formulas. To start, a log is chosen from a group of similarlogs that are debarked, generally straight, and of approximately thesame length and diameter. The desired width of the flat top and bottomsurface is chosen, whether chosen for stability or appearance, andbecomes distance W.

FIG. 5 is the mathematical formula that shows the overall finishedheight of the log at the notch on the small end of the log. The logdiameter at the small notch, distance SD, is squared. Subtracted fromthis is distance W squared; the result is distance SH squared.

FIG. 6 is the mathematical formula to find the overall finished heightof the log at the notch on the large end of the log. The log diameter atthe large notch, distance LD squared, minus distance W squared, equalsdistance LH.

FIG. 7 shows that the height of the end of the log LH, minus the heightof the small end SH, equals distance F.

FIG. 8 shows the mathematical formula to find distance SM. The height ofthe log at the small end notch, distance SH, minus distance F, is thendivided by four to give us distance SM.

FIG. 9 shows how to calculate distance LG. Distance LG is determined byadding distance SM and distance F.

FIG. 10 shows the height of the center block. The height of the centerblock, BH, is equal to the distance SM added to distance LG

FIG. 11 is a way to cross-reference distances SH, BH, and SM. DistanceSM multiplied by two is added to distance BH, equaling distance SH.

FIG. 12 cross-references distances LH, LG, and SM. Distance LGmultiplied by three and added to distance SM equals distance LH.

FIG. 13 is used to determine the overall width of the notch on the smallend of the log, designated as distance SW. The diameter of the small endof the log SD squared, minus distance F squared, equals distance SWsquared.

FIG. 14 shows the mathematical formula to determine the overall width ofthe notch on the large end of the log. The diameter of the log at thenotch on the large end of the log LD squared minus distance F squaredequals distance LW.

FIG. 15 shows the mathematical formula to determine the distance thatthe plane on which the widest part of the notch on the large end of thelog LW sits on PLW is from the top surface of the large end of the log.The height of the large end of the log LH plus one half of distance Fequals distance PLW.

FIG. 16 can be used to find the distance between the plane on which thewidest part of the small end notch SW sits on PSW from the top surfaceof the small end of the log. One half of the height of the small end ofthe log SH minus one forth of the distance F equals distance PSW.

FIG. 17 is used to determine distance LX. The overall width of the notchon the large end of the log LW minus distance W is then divided by two.This equals distance LX.

FIG. 18 is used to determine distance SX. The overall width of the notchon the small end of the log SW minus distance W and then divided by twoequals distance SX.

FIG. 3A is the front view of the notch on the large end of the log:surface 1 being the natural round front side of the log, surface 2 theflat top of the log, and surface 4 the flat bottom. Distance W, aschosen above, is also the same width of the center block, the topsurface being 27 and the bottom surface being 36.

Both of these surfaces have no tilt in relation to the radius or thelength of the log. Surfaces 24 and 30 have no tilt in relation to theradius of the log and both angle upwards in opposite directions fromsurface 27 until they each reach surface 2 on the edge of the notch inrelation to the length of the log. Surface 26 is level in relation tothe length of the log but angles downward towards the front outside ofthe notch in relation to the radius of the log.

Surface 23, being on a plane with a compound angle, has the same upwardtilt from surface 26 as surface 24 does from 27 in relation to thelength of the log, and the same downward angle from surface 24, inrelation to the radius of the log, as surface 26 down from surface 27.

Surface 29 being on a plane with a compound angle has the same rate ofincline from surface 26 in relation to the length of the log as surface30 from surface 27, and the same downward angle from surface 30 assurface 26 slopes down from surface 27 in relation to the radius of thelog.

Distance LX is found in FIG. 17, LW in FIG. 14, and LH in FIG. 12.Surface 35 is level in relation to the length of the log and slopesupward from surface 36 towards the outside of the notch to the pointwhere it meets surface 26 in relation to the radius of the log. Surface33 has no radius tilt and angles downward from surface 36 to surface 4in relation to the length of the log.

Surface 32, being on a plane with a compound angle, has the same radialincline up from surface 33 as surface 35 does from surface 36, and thesame downward angle from surface 35, in relation to the length of thelog, as surface 33 does from surface 36.

Surface 38, being on a plane with a compound angle, has the same radialangle from surface 39 as surface 35 does from surface 36, and the samedownward slope from surface 35 as surface 36 does from 39 in relation tothe length of the log. Distance SX is determined in FIG. 18, anddistance SW is found in FIG. 13.

FIG. 3AA is a sectional view of the notch on the large end of the log:surface 1 being the natural front surface of the log, surface 2 the top,and surface 4 the bottom. The depth of surfaces 2 and 4 each equaldistance W, with the overall depth of the notch being distance LW asdetermined in FIG. 14.

The horizontal distance between where surfaces 23 and 4 meet to wheresurfaces 23 and 32 meet equals distance LX, as shown in FIG. 17. Thevertical height between where surface 24 meets surface 2 and wheresurface 24 meets 27 is distance LG, as shown in FIG. 9. The verticaldistance from where surface 26 meets 27 to where surface 26 meets 35 isalso distance LG.

The vertical distance where surface 35 meets 26 to where surface 35meets 36 equals distance SM, as determined in FIG. 8. The verticaldistance from where surface 33 meets 36 to where surface 4 meets surface33 also equals distance LG. The vertical height from where surface 28meets surface 37 to the top of distance LH, as explained in FIG. 6,equals distance PLW, as shown in FIG. 15.

Surfaces 26, 27, 28, 35, 36, and 37 all have no tilt in relation to thelength of the log.

Surface 23 sits on a plane with compound angles having the same downwardangle from surface 24 as surface 26 from 27, in relation to the radiusof the log, and the same upward angle from surface 26 as surface 24 doesfrom 27, in relation to the length of the log.

Surface 25 is on a plane with compound angles having the same upwardslope from surface 28 as surface 24 does from surface 27 in relation tothe length of the log, and the same downward angle from surface 24 assurface 28 from surface 27 in relation to the radius of the log.

Surface 32, being on a plane with compound angles, has the same upwardangle from surface 33 as surface 35 does from 36 in relation to theradius of the log, and the same downward angle from surface 35 assurface 33 does from surface 36 in relation to the length of the log.

Surface 34, also being on a plane with a compound angle, has the samedownward angle from surface 37 as surface 33 does from surface 36 inrelation to the length of the log, and the same upward angle fromsurface 33 as surface 37 does from surface 36 in relation to the radiusof the log.

FIG. 3AB is the top view of the notch on the large end of the log. Thewidth of surfaces 26, 27, 28, and the depth of surfaces 2, 24, 27, and30, all equal distance W. The horizontal distance of the width ofsurfaces 23, 24, 25, 29, 30, and 31, as well as the horizontal depth ofsurfaces 23, 26, 29, 25, 28, and surface 31, each equal distance LX, asfound in FIG. 17.

Surface 1 is the naturally round front of the log, surface 3 being thenaturally round rear of the log, and surface 2 the flat top surface ofthe log. Surface 27 is the top surface of the center block having zerotilt in relation to the radius and the length of the log.

Surfaces 24 and 30 angle upward, in opposite directions, from surface 27to surface 2 on each side of the notch in relation to the length of thelogs and have no tilt in relation to the radius of the log.

Surfaces 26 and 28 have no slope in relation to the length of the logand each of the surfaces angles downward to the outside of the notch inthe relation to the radius of the log.

Surface 23 is on a plane that has compound angles with the same upwardangle from surface 26 as surface 24 does from surface 27 in relation tothe length of the log, and the same downward angle from surface 24 thatsurface 26 does from surface 27 in relation to the radius of the log.

Surface 25, being on a plane with compound angles, has the same downwardangle from surface 24 as surface 28 does from surface 27 in relation tothe radius of the log, and the same upward angle from surface 28 assurface 24 does from surface 27 in relation to the length of the log.

Surface 29 is on a plane with compound angles having the same downwardangle from surface 30 as surface 26 does from surface 27 in relation tothe radius of the log, and the same upward angle from surface 26 assurface 30 from surface 27 in relation to the length of the log.

Surface 31, being on a plane with compound angles, has the same downwardangle from surface 30 as surface 28 does from surface 27 in relation tothe radius of the log, and the same upward angle from surface 28 assurface 30 does from surface 27 in relation to the length of the log.

FIG. 3AC is the bottom view of the notch on the large end of the log:surface 1 being the natural round front of the log, surface 3 thenatural round rear of the log, and surface 4 the flat bottom surfacemilled into the log.

The width of surfaces 35, 36, 37, and the depth of surfaces 4, 33, 36,and 39 are each equal to distance W. The horizontal width of surfaces32, 33, 34, 38, 39, and surface 40 are each equal to distance SX, asdetermined in FIG. 18. The horizontal depth of surfaces 32, 34, 35, 37,38, and 40 each equal distance LX, as shown in FIG. 17. The entire depthof the notch, distance LW, is shown in FIG. 14. The entire width of thenotch, distance SW, is shown in FIG. 13.

Surface 36, the bottom of the center block, is level with zero tilt inrelation to the radius and the length of the log. Surfaces 35 and 37,having no tilt in relation to the length of the log, both angle upwardsfrom surface 36, in opposite directions, to the outer edges of the notchin relation to the radius of the log.

Surfaces 33 and 39 are both level and have no tilt in relation to theradius of the log; both angle downward from surface 36 in oppositedirections until each surface meets surface 4 at their side of thenotch.

Surface 32, being on a plane with compound angles, has the same upwardangle from surface 33 as surface 35 does from surface 36 in relation tothe radius of the log, and the same downward angle from surface 35 assurface 33 does from surface 36 in relation to length of the log.

Surface 34, being on a plane with compound angles, has the same upwardangle from surface 33 as surface 37 does from surface 36 in relation tothe radius of the log, and the same downward angle from surface 37 assurface 33 does from surface 36 in relation to the length of the log.

Surface 38, being on a plane that has compound angles, angles upwardfrom surface 39 at the same angle that surface 35 does from surface 36in relation to the radius of the log, and the same downward angle fromsurface 35 as surface 39 does from surface 36 in relation to the lengthof the log.

Surface 40, also being on a plane with compound angles, has the sameupward angle from surface 39 as surface 37 does from surface 36 inrelation to the radius, and the same downward angle from surface 37 assurface 39 does from surface 36 in relation to the length of the log.

FIG. 3B shows the side view of the notch on the small end of the log:surface 1 being the naturally round front of the log, surface 2 the flattop, and surface 4 the flat bottom surface of the log.

The overall height of the log at the center of the notch is distance SH,as determined in FIG. 5. The overall width of the upper section of thenotch, distance SW, is also the sum the horizontal distance SX of wheresurface 2 meets 6 to where surface 9 meets 6, added to the width ofsurface 9, distance W, and the horizontal distance of where surface 12meets 2 to where surface 9 meets surface 12, also being distance Sx, asshown in FIG. 18.

Surface 8 angles down from surface 9 to the point where surface 8 meetssurface 17 in relation to the radius of the log and has no tilt inrelation to the length of the log.

Surface 5, being on a plane with a compound angle, has the same upwardangle from surface 8 as surface 6 does from surface 9 in relation to thelength of the log and angles downward from surface 6 the same as surface8 does from surface 9 in relation to the radius of the log.

Surface 11, being on a plane with compound angles, has the same upwardangle from surface 8 that surface 12 does from surface 9 in relation tothe length of the log and downward from surface 12 the same as surface 8does from surface 9 in relation to the radius of the log.

The overall width of the lower section of the log, distance LW, equalsthe sum of the width of surface 18, distance W, and both of thedistances LX as found in FIG. 14.

Surface 17 angles upward from surface 18 to the point 17 meets surface 8in relation to the radius of the log and has no tilt in relation to thelength of the log.

Surface 14, being on a plane with compound angles, has the same upwardangle from surface 15 as surface 17 does from surface 18 in relation tothe radius of the log and downward angle from surface 17 as surface 15does from surface 18 in relation to the length of the log.

Surface 20 is also on a plane with a compound angle, has the same upwardangle from surface 21 as surface 17 does from surface 18 in relation tothe radius of the log, and the same downward angle from surface 17 assurface 21 does from surface 18 in relation to the length of the log.

FIG. 3BA is the sectional view of the notch on the small end of the log.The overall depth of the notch, distance SW, is the total sum of thedepth of each surface 8 and surface 10 added to the depth of surface 2,distance W, as shown in FIG. 13. The overall height of the log, distanceSH, is the total sum of three distances SM and one distance LG, as shownin FIG. 8 and FIG. 9. The distance from surface 9 to surface 18,distance BH, is the total sum of the distance between surface 9 to wheresurfaces 8 and 17 meet, distance SM, and the distance from surface 18 towhere surfaces 17 and 8 meet, distance LG, as is shown in FIG. 10.

Surfaces 8, 9, 10, 17, 18, and 19 all have zero tilt in relation to thelength of the log. Distance PSW runs from the top surface 2 of the logto the point that surfaces 10 and 19 meet, as shown in FIG. 16. As shownin FIG. 9, distance LG is the sum of distance SM and distance F.

Surface 1 is the naturally rounded front surface of the log, surface 2the flat top of the log, and surface 3 the naturally rounded rearsurface of the log.

Surface 5 is on a plane with a compound angle, has a downward angle fromsurface 6 the same as surface 8 does from surface 9 in relation to theradius of the log, and the same upward angle from surface 8 as surface 6does from surface 9 in relation to the length of the log.

Surface 7 is on a plane with a compound angle, has the same upward anglefrom surface 10 as surface 6 does from surface 9 in relation to thelength of the log, and the same downward angle from surface 6 as surface10 does from surface 9 in relation to the radius of the log.

Surface 14, being on a plane with a compound angle, has the same upwardangle from surface 15 as surface 17 does from surface 18 in relation tothe radius of the log, and the same downward angle from surface 17 assurface 15 does from surface 18 in relation to the length of the log.

Surface 16, also being on a plane with a compound angle, has the samedownward angle from surface 19 as surface 15 does from surface 18 inrelation to the length of the log, and the same upward angle fromsurface 15 as surface 19 does from surface 18 in relation to the radiusof the log.

FIG. 3BB is the top view of the notch on the small end of the log,surface 1 being the naturally round front of the log; surface 2 is theflat top surface of the log; and surface 3 is the naturally round rearsurface of the log.

The overall width and horizontal depth of the notch each equals distanceSW. The width of surfaces 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13, and the depths ofsurfaces 5, 8, 11, 7, 10, and 13 each equal distance SX, as shown inFIG. 18. The width of surface 8, 9, 10, and the depth of surfaces 2, 6,9, and 12 each equal distance W. Surfaces 8, 9, and 10 all have zerotilt in relation to the length of the log. Surfaces 2, 6, 9, and 12 eachhave zero tilt in relation to the radius of the log.

Surfaces 6 and 12 both angle upwards from surface 9 in opposingdirections, in relation to the length of the log, until each surfacemeets with surface 2 at the top of the notch Surfaces 8 and 10 bothangle downward from surface 9 in opposing direction, in relation to theradius of the log, until each surface reaches the outer edge of thenotch.

Surface 5, being on a plane with a compound angle (having tilt in boththe radius and the length), has the same downward angle from surface 6as surface 8 does from surface 9 in relation to the radius of the log,and the same upward angle from surface 8 that surface 6 does fromsurface 9 in relation to the length of the log.

Surface 7, being on a plane that has a compound angle, has the sameupward angle from surface 10 that surface 6 does from surface 9 inrelation to the length of the log, and the same downward angle fromsurface 6 that surface 10 has from surface 9 in relation to the radiusof the log.

Surface 13, being on a plane with a compound angle, has the same upwardangle from surface 10 that surface 12 does from surface 9 in relation tothe length of the log and the same downward angle from surface 12 thatsurface 10 does from surface 9 in relation to the radius of the log.

Surface 11, also being on a plane with a compound angle, has the sameupward angle from surface 8 that surface 12 does from surface 9 inrelation to the length of the log, and the same downward angle fromsurface 12 that surface 8 has from surface 9 in relation to the radiusof the log.

FIG. 3BC is the bottom view of the notch on the small end of the log.The overall width of the notch shown is distance LW as found in FIG. 14.The overall horizontal depth of the notch is distance SW as shown inFIG. 13. The width of surfaces 17, 18, 19, and the depth of surfaces 4,15, 18, and 21, each equal distance W. The horizontal width of surfaces14, 15, 16, 20, 21, and 22 each equal distance LX as found in FIG. 17.The horizontal depth of surfaces 14, 17, 20, 16, 19, and 22 each equaldistance SX found in FIG. 18.

Surface 1 is the naturally round front of the log. Surface 3 is thenaturally round rear surface of the log. Surface 4 is the flat bottomsurface of the log.

Surface 18 is the bottom surface of the center notch and has zerodegrees of tilt in relation to the length or radius of the log. Surfaces17 and 19 both run at an upward angle from surface 18, in relation tothe radius of the log, in opposite directions until each of the surfacesreaches the outside edge of the log and both have no tilt in relation tothe length of the log. Both surfaces 15 and 21 have no tilt in relationto the radius of the log, and both angle downward from surface 18 inopposite directions until each surface meets surface 4 on their side ofthe notch.

Surface 14, being on a plane with compound angles, has the same downwardangle from surface 17 as surface 15 does from surface 18 in relation tothe length of the log, and the same upward angle from surface 15 assurface 17 does from surface 18 in relation to the radius of the log.

Surface 16, being on a plane with a compound angle, has the same upwardangle from surface 15 as surface 19 does from surface 18 in relation tothe radius of the log, and the same downward angle from surface 19 assurface 15 does from surface 18 in relation to the length of the log.

Surface 20, being on a plane with a compound angle, has the same upwardangle from surface 21 as surface 17 does from surface 18 in relation tothe radius of the log, and the same downward angle from surface 17 thatsurface 21 does from surface 18 in relation to the length of the log.

Surface 22, also being on a plane with a compound angle, has the sameupward angle from surface 21 that surface 19 does from surface 18 inrelation to the radius of the log, and the same downward angle fromsurface 19 that surface 21 does from surface 18 in relation to thelength of the log.

FIG. 3C shows the front view of the log with a standard thru-boltthrough the anti-settling blocks. The lower log 100, section 100C shown,with the thru-bolt 52 extending through the log with the tighteninghardware already in place. Block 42 is placed down over bolt 52 and thenext log 100, section 100C shown, is placed directly on top of the lowerlog.

Washer 46 is placed over the thru-bolt 52 followed by retaining nut 45and tightened to secure the log in place. An additional washer 46 andanti-settling block 42 then follows in preparation for the next courseof logs.

FIG. 3CA is the sectional view of the standard thru-bolts with theanti-settling blocks. Lower log 100, section 100C shown, already overthru-bolt 52 and secured with retaining nut 45 with washers 46 andanti-settling block 42 in place.

The thru-bolt 52 passes through passage hole 49 and both block recesses48, these recesses being deep enough to reach the more stable heartwoodof the log. The anti-settling blocks are of heartwood or some othermaterial that does not fluctuate with moisture content and are able tostructurally support the weight of the building.

The upper log 100, section 100C shown, is then placed onto the lower logwith thru-bolt extending through the upper log. Anti-settling block 42completely fills the recess 48 on the lower section of the upper log andis supported by the upper washer 46 on the lower log.

The anti-settling blocks could be used in places other than at thethru-bolt. To achieve this, recesses 48 are milled into the top of thelower log to the point it reaches the log's heartwood, and the same sizerecess is milled into the bottom of the lower log to align with the holeon the bottom log. An anti-settling block being modified in height tocompletely fill both recesses to the point that the block sitting in therecess of the lower log will support the weight of the upper log withthe block in the recess of the upper log.

In the event that the heartwood will not support the weight of the upperlogs or the depths of the recesses would be too great, additional holescan be bored parallel to passage 49 to reach from recess 48 on the topto recess 48 on the bottom. These holes can then be filled with epoxyresin or something similar that will partially absorb into the wood andthen cure to form a solid foundation.

FIG. 3D is the view a thru-bolt with anti-settling blocks and a beam foran interior partition along with the hardware to secure the beam. Thepurpose of this beam is to eliminate the time-consuming process ofcarving the slot in the interior wall to accept the standard 2×4 wallconstruction often used. This also provides a way for the wall to“float,” or settle separate from the log shell of the home.

With the lower log 100, shown as section 100D, already secured in place,the upper log 100, also shown as section 100D, is slid over thru-bolt 52and set directly on the lower log. Wall beam 53 fits tightly into slot50. Washer 46 and retaining nut 45 is placed onto thru-bolt 52 and istightened to secure the upper log in place.

The floating beam retaining clip 43 is slid over thru-bolt 52 and sitson top of retaining nut 45 and through slot 47. Screws are theninstalled threw clip 43 into beam 53.

Spacer block 42 is then slid over thru-bolt 52 and the process isrepeated on the next course.

FIG. 3DA is the sectional view of the thru-bolt anchoring system withthe anti-settling blocks and the beam for the interior partition.

Lower log 100, shown as log section 100D, is shown in position withwasher 46 and retaining nut 45 tightened to secure the log. The floatingbeam retaining clip has been slid over threaded rod 52 and held in placewith screws 44 that have been screwed through the clip and into thefloating wall beam 53.

The upper log 100, shown as section 100D, is then slid down ontothru-bolt 52 with the rod passing through hole 49 and the lower recess48 fitting over anti-settling block 42. Wall beam 53 slips into slot 50.

Washer 46 and retaining nut 45 are then run down the thru-bolt 52 and istightened to secure the log. The floating beam retaining clip 43 is thenplaced over thru-bolt 52 and sets on top of nut 45 and in slot 47. Clip43 is then attached by screws 44 going through clip 43 into beam 53.Anti-settling block 42 is then slid over thru-bolt 52 and sets on top ofbeam clip 43.

1: A log structure comprising: a foundation which includes therein ameans of fastening logs to said foundation; a first halved log elementhaving a large end and a small end, said first halved log elementfurther having a substantial flat bottom surface and a top surface; saidfirst log halved element further having a plurality of portions definingholes which extend from the top surface to the bottom surface whereinthe bottom surface of said first halved log element is placed on top ofsaid foundation with said means of fastening logs originating in saidfoundation and passing through said holes in said first halved logelement; said first halved log element having multi-beveled interlockingnotches near each end; a second halved log element having a large endand a small end, said second log element further having a substantialflat bottom surface and a top surface; said second log halved elementfurther having a plurality of portions defining holes which extend fromthe top surface to the bottom surface wherein the bottom surface of saidsecond halved log element is placed on top of said foundation in aposition parallel to said first halved log element, and further placedsuch that the large end of the first halved log element and the largeend of the second halved log element are diagonally opposed, with saidmeans of fastening logs originating in said foundation and passingthrough said holes in said second halved log element; said second halvedlog element having multi-beveled interlocking notches near each end; afirst whole log element, having a large end and a small end, situatedperpendicular to the first and second halved log elements; said firstwhole log element having multi-beveled interlocking notches near eachend; said interlocking notches each having a top side and a bottom side;said first whole log element having a top surface and a bottom surfaceand further having a plurality of portions defining holes which extendfrom the top surface to the bottom surface of said first whole logelement; said first whole log element positioned such that the bottomside of the large end interlocking notch engages the interlocking notchof the first halved log element; said first whole log further positionedsuch that the bottom side of the small end interlocking notch engagesthe small end of the second halved log element; said first whole logelement situated such that said means of fastening logs originating insaid foundation pass through said holes in said second whole logelement; a second whole log element, having a large end and a small end,situated perpendicular to the first and second halved log elements; saidsecond whole log element having multi-beveled interlocking notches neareach end; said interlocking notches having a top side and a bottom side;said second whole log element having a top surface and a bottom surfaceand further having a plurality of portions defining holes which extendfrom the top surface to the bottom surface of said second whole logelement; said second whole log element positioned such that the bottomside of the interlocking notch on the small end engages the first halvedlog element; said second whole log element further positioned such thatthe bottom side of the large end interlocking notch engages the secondhalved log element; said second whole log element situated such thatsaid means of fastening logs originating in said foundation pass throughsaid holes in said second whole log element; a plurality of additionallogs of shape and size consistent with said whole log elements, having alarge end, a small end, a top surface and a bottom surface and furtherhaving a multi-beveled interlocking notch near each end; each saidinterlocking notch having a top side and a bottom side; each additionallog being situated on top of a prior installed log element, each saidadditional log having a plurality of portions defining holes whichextend from the top surface to the bottom surface of said additionallogs, said additional logs being positioned such that said means offastening logs originating from said foundation extend through each ofsaid logs, further each said additional log is situated such that themulti-beveled interlocking notch is oriented so that it is able toengage an interlocking notch on an additional log that it overlaps ateach corner location of the log structure; whereby walls of desiredheight are formed through the stacking of such additional logs on theprior elements. 2: The log structure of claim 1 wherein said means forfastening logs further comprises rods embedded in said foundation. 3:The log structure of claim 1 further comprising: said first halved logelement further having at least a portion defining a recess; said recessbeing centered over at least one of said holes and having a total sizegreater than that of said hole; said second halved log element furtherhaving a least a portion defining a recess; said recess being centeredover at least one of said holes and having a total size greater thanthat of said hole; said first whole log element further having at leasta portion defining a recess; said recess being centered over at leastone of said holes and having a total size greater than that of saidhole; said second whole log element further having at least a portiondefining a recess; said recess being centered over at least one of saidholes and having a total size greater than that of said hole; said aplurality of additional logs having at least a portion defining arecess; said recess being centered over at least one of said holes andhaving a total size greater than that of said hole; a plurality ofanti-settling blocks situated in at least one recess of each of saidfirst halved log element, second halved log element, first whole logelement and second whole log element and said plurality of additionallogs; and a means for fastening each said anti-settling block in place.4: The log structure of claim 1 further comprising a roof structureattached to one end of said log structure. 5: The log structure of claim1 where in each said first whole log element, each said second whole logelement, and said plurality of additional logs each contain an upper andlower milled surface. 6: The log structure of claim 1 wherein at leastone wooden beam for an interior partition is affixed to one side of saidlog structure. 7: A log structure comprising: a foundation with embeddedrods; a first halved log element having a large end and a small end,said first halved log element further having a substantial flat bottomsurface and a top surface; said first log halved element further havinga plurality of portions defining holes which extend from the top surfaceto the bottom surface wherein the bottom surface of said first halvedlog element is placed on top of said foundation with said embedded rodsoriginating in said foundation and passing through said holes in saidfirst halved log element; said first halved log element havingmulti-beveled interlocking notches near each end; said first halved logelement further having at least a portion defining a recess; said recessbeing centered over at least one of said holes and having a total sizegreater than that of said hole; a second halved log element having alarge end and a small end, said second log element further having asubstantial flat bottom surface and a top surface; said second loghalved element further having a plurality of portions defining holeswhich extend from the top surface to the bottom surface wherein thebottom surface of said second halved log element is placed on top ofsaid foundation in a position parallel to said first halved log element,and further placed such that the large end of the first halved logelement and the large end of the second halved log element arediagonally opposed, with said embedded rods originating in saidfoundation and passing through said holes in said second halved logelement; said second halved log element having multi-beveledinterlocking notches near each end; said second halved log elementfurther having a least a portion defining a recess; said recess beingcentered over at least one of said holes and having a total size greaterthan that of said hole; a first whole log element, having a large endand a small end, situated perpendicular to the first and second halvedlog elements; said first whole log element having multi-beveledinterlocking notches near each end; said interlocking notches eachhaving a top side and a bottom side; said first whole log element havinga top surface and a bottom surface and further having a plurality ofportions defining holes which extend from the top surface to the bottomsurface of said first whole log element; said first whole log elementpositioned such that the bottom side of the large end interlocking notchengages the interlocking notch of the first halved log element; saidfirst whole log further positioned such that the bottom side of thesmall end interlocking notch engages the small end of the second halvedlog element; said first whole log element situated such that saidembedded rods originating in said foundation passing through said holesin said second whole log element; said first whole log element furtherhaving at least a portion defining a recess; said recess being centeredover at least one of said holes and having a total size greater thanthat of said hole; a second whole log element, having a large end and asmall end, situated perpendicular to the first and second halved logelements; said second whole log element having multi-beveledinterlocking notches near each end; said interlocking notches having atop side and a bottom side; said second whole log element having a topsurface and a bottom surface and further having a plurality of portionsdefining holes which extend from the top surface to the bottom surfaceof said second whole log element; said second whole log elementpositioned such that the bottom side of the interlocking notch on thesmall end engages the first halved log element; said second whole logelement further positioned such that the bottom side of the large endinterlocking notch engages the second halved log element; said secondwhole log element situated such that said embedded rods originating insaid foundation passing through said holes in said second whole logelement; said second whole log element further having at least a portiondefining a recess; said recess being centered over at least one of saidholes and having a total size greater than that of said hole; aplurality of additional logs of shape and size consistent with saidwhole log elements, having a large end, a small end, a top surface and abottom surface and further having a multi-beveled interlocking notchnear each end; each said interlocking notch having a top side and abottom side; each additional log being situated on top of a priorinstalled log element, each said additional log having a plurality ofportions defining holes which extend from the top surface to the bottomsurface of said additional logs, said additional logs being positionedsuch that the rods originating from said foundation extend through eachof said logs, further each said additional log is situated such that themulti-beveled interlocking notch is oriented so that it is able toengage an interlocking notch on an additional log that it overlaps ateach corner location of the log structure; whereby walls of desiredheight are formed through the stacking of such additional logs on theprior elements; a plurality of anti-settling blocks situated in at leastone recess of each of said first halved log element, second halved logelement, first whole log element and second whole log element and saidplurality of additional logs; means for fastening each saidanti-settling block in place; a roof structure attached to one end ofsaid log structure and covering said log structure. 8: A log structurecomprising: a first halved log element having a large end and a smallend, said first halved log element further having a substantial flatbottom surface and a top surface; said first halved log element havingmulti-beveled interlocking notches near each end; a second halved logelement having a large end and a small end, said second log elementfurther having a substantial flat bottom surface and a top surface; saidsecond halved log element having multi-beveled interlocking notches neareach end; a first whole log element, having a large end and a small end,situated perpendicular to the first and second halved log elements; saidfirst whole log element having multi-beveled interlocking notches neareach end; said interlocking notches each having a top side and a bottomside; said first whole log element having a top surface and a bottomsurface; said first whole log element positioned such that the bottomside of the large end interlocking notch engages the interlocking notchof the first halved log element; said first whole log further positionedsuch that the bottom side of the small end interlocking notch engagesthe small end of the second halved log element; a second whole logelement, having a large end and a small end, situated perpendicular tothe first and second halved log elements; said second whole log elementhaving multi-beveled interlocking notches near each end; saidinterlocking notches having a top side and a bottom side; said secondwhole log element having a top surface and a bottom surface; said secondwhole log element positioned such that the bottom side of theinterlocking notch on the small end engages the first halved logelement; said second whole log element further positioned such that thebottom side of the large end interlocking notch engages the secondhalved log element; a plurality of additional logs of shape and sizeconsistent with said whole log elements, having a large end, a smallend, a top surface and a bottom surface and further having amulti-beveled interlocking notch near each end; each said interlockingnotch having a top side and a bottom side; each additional log beingsituated on top of a prior installed log element; further each saidadditional log is situated such that the multi-beveled interlockingnotch is oriented so that it is able to engage an interlocking notch onan additional log that it overlaps at each corner location of the logstructure; means of affixation for supporting said engagements ofinterlocking notches in order to provide stability for said logstructure; whereby walls of desired height are formed through thestacking of such additional logs on the prior elements.